Manchester United could be set to make a move for a midfielder they have chased for the last two summers, as the player is tipped to call time at the club he once called his ‘dream’ move.
The midfield position is something Manchester United should really be looking to strengthen this summer, particularly if they want to bring out the absolute best in Bruno Fernandes. The midfield has been an area of concern at the club for a number of seasons.
With Matheus Cunha done and Bryan Mbeumo still getting closer, a midfielder or a striker has to be next on the list of potential targets. A permanent move for a highly rated player to fix the issues may be difficult due to funds, but a loan move for a player already on the club’s list could be a smarter move.
The sales of Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho, as well as Antony, could open up doors for the club to invest in both positions, but with no current suitors forthcoming for the trio, United may have to look at raising funds elsewhere.
A midfielder could be the difference between fighting for a Champions League spot or languishing around the doldrums of the league, and Ruben Amorim will be aware of that coming into the new season.
United eye Joao Palhinha move
Manchester United are now reportedly eyeing a move for former Fulham and Sporting CP midfielder Joao Palhinha, with the Portuguese midfielder expected to leave his dream club this summer.
Palhinha’s move to Bayern failed in 2023 but the defensive-minded central midfielder got his wish in 2024. Since then it hasn’t gone to plan whatsoever, with Palhinha making just 17 appearances in the league this season.
The player spoke recently to Portuguese reporters after a game against Germany about the situation, highlighting his desire to remain at the club despite the struggles he endured during his opening twelve months in Bavaria.
“My dream is to succeed here. Because it was incredibly hard to get here to this club. Everyone knows the story. Nothing in my life has been easy. And that was one thing that made me proud. Let’s see. There’s no reason to be disappointed.”
“I won a title with Bayern. And I hope it was the first of many. We’ll see about the rest. We’ll discuss it and decide what’s best for me – also for myself. I will always fight, and I’m ready, wherever my future lies.”
According to GiveMeSport, Manchester United are now exploring a loan move for the midfielder in what can be seen as a market opportunity. The deal may be feasible as a loan due to Palhinha’s need to play football while also wanting to remain a Bayern Munich player long-term.
Palhinha is a good market opportunity
Manchester United wanted Palhinha two years ago, and they’d be correct to try and pursue him this season on a short-term stopgap loan deal for the midfield. He’s the type of ball player United need in central areas and has the type of defensive intensity they require to succeed in the league.
Either Kobbie Mainoo, Bruno Fernandes or Manuel Ugarte needs a more complementary partner, and Palhinha’s blend of composure and tenacity would bring a nice blend into a position that needs it.
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A permanent deal may not suit INEOS due to his age profile, but a loan benefits all parties, and the Reds would be crazy to not at least explore it.
Midfield remains a priority for the club if they are serious about a rebuild, and Joao Palhinha instantly makes Manchester United’s midfield stronger.
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